Kiowa Creek Ws K-80 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kiowa Creek WS K-80 is a vital water storage structure located in Elbert, Colorado, along the East Kiowa Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1955 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans a length of 342 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 63 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this dam is flood risk reduction, serving the local community by mitigating potential flood hazards in the region.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Kiowa Creek WS K-80 is a key infrastructure for managing water resources in the area. Although the condition assessment is not available, the dam is regularly inspected every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam is owned by the local government and funded by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, highlighting the collaborative efforts in maintaining and operating this critical flood control structure.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the significance of Kiowa Creek WS K-80 lies in its role in safeguarding the community from flood risks and ensuring water security in the region. With its strategic location and design features, this dam serves as a valuable asset in managing water resources and climate resilience in Elbert, Colorado. The dedication of USDA NRCS in designing and constructing this structure underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices for a more resilient future.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

342

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

East Kiowa Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

4.06

Nid Storage

63

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.